Know How You Will Impact Culture

Hiring managers are looking at more than just your skills during an interview. Yes, your experience and expertise are important, but equally important is your ability to fit in with company culture. Cultural alignment impacts your happiness and productivity on the job, and it is in the company’s best interest to hire someone whose values and approach are a strong match. Here are some ways to showcase your cultural fit.

First, Know the Culture

You can’t prove you are aligned with company culture if you don’t know what that culture is. Study the company website, browse their social media platforms and read company reviews online. If you know people who work for the organization or if you know a friend of someone who works there, invite that person for coffee and ask them what it’s like to work for the company.

Determine Where You Align

Once you have a feel for company culture, you need to decide how that culture matches your values, priorities, personality and approach to work. If you don’t see any overlap, the company is likely not right for you. If you do see overlap, you know what to highlight during your interview. For example, if you’re interviewing with a startup and you are highly motivated, independent and comfortable wearing many hats, these are the values you want to showcase.

Prepare anecdotes that focus on the areas where you align with company culture so you can paint a clear picture for the hiring manager of how you would fit in and have a positive impact on the company culture.

Ask Great Questions

At the end of every interview, you’ll be handed the floor to ask questions. Use this time wisely. Ask questions that show you’ve thought about cultural fit. Consider questions like:

What types of people succeed here?

What is the leadership style of the direct supervisor of this position?

What do you like best about working here?

What was the department’s biggest challenge last year?

What continuing learning opportunities are available for employees?

Choose questions that speak to the values you identified as overlapping with your own.

Be Realistic

It is important to be honest with yourself about your potential alignment with culture. Don’t try to fit in if you don’t. If you’re unhappy with the organizational culture, you won’t be happy doing your job and ultimately, you’ll find yourself back on the job hunt. There are endless opportunities with companies of all sizes, types and cultures in Chicago, so don’t feel pressured into taking a job that might not be a great fit for you.